Bangkok: The Cabinet has approved a maximum fare of 45 baht per trip for the electric train system, eliminating overlapping fares. This decision comes as a response to the high oil prices and rising inflation affecting Thailand, which have increased the cost of living and travel expenses for the public.
According to Thai News Agency, Ms. Ratchada Thanadirek, spokesperson for the Prime Minister's Office, stated that the move aims to alleviate the financial burden on commuters by revoking the previous resolution that set a maximum fare of 20 baht for the BTS Skytrain line. The Cabinet has also decided to cancel the previous assignment of the Digital Government Development Agency to develop the central revenue management system. Instead, the Office of Transport and Traffic Policy and Planning is tasked with collaborating with the Ministry of Finance to identify a suitable agency for managing the central revenue management center, with the goal of establishing a common fare rate by December 2026.
The Cabinet's measures include a unified fare system for mass transit rail systems, with a maximum fare of 45 baht per trip, which covers all rail lines in Bangkok and surrounding areas. The fare structure ensures that if the total fare for a journey is less than 45 baht, the actual fare will be charged without duplicate initial fare collection. Furthermore, EMV Contactless Cards will be used for fare payment, and special fares will be available for the elderly, children, people with disabilities, and disadvantaged groups.
Additionally, the Cabinet has recognized the resolution by the Committee on Land Traffic System Management in 2025, which endorses a comprehensive restructuring of the electric train system. This restructuring assigns the Mass Rapid Transit Authority of Thailand as the sole state agency responsible for managing the electric train projects, including the transfer of various lines and associated revenues and liabilities, in compliance with legal procedures.